Date of Graduation
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Finance
Advisor/Mentor
Riley, Tim
Abstract
This thesis examines the impact of U.S. presidential elections on financial market performance, focusing on volatility, investor behavior, and market returns. Political uncertainty during election years often triggers market fluctuations, influencing investor confidence, policy expectations, and sector-specific reactions. By analyzing historical election-year data, this study identifies consistent patterns of increased volatility, shifts in investor sentiment, and post-election market stabilization. Findings suggest that while short-term uncertainty affects market behavior, long-term investment strategies should prioritize broader economic trends over election-driven fluctuations. These insights provide practical guidance for investors navigating politically uncertain environments.
Keywords
Political uncertainty; stock market; economics; presidential elections; partisan control
Citation
Hale, R. (2025). The Influence of Political Uncertainty on Financial Markets During U.S. Elections: A Comprehensive Analysis. Finance Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/finnuht/137
